M.A. Instructional Design for Learning
West Liberty’s Visual Art Education concentration helps educators refine their artistic practice and master innovative strategies that inspire student creativity.
Inspire creativity. Transform
learning through the arts.
The Visual Art Education concentration is designed for educators who want to deepen their content knowledge and refine their teaching practice in the visual arts. Through a combination of artistic exploration and instructional development, this program prepares you to lead dynamic, engaging, and student-centered art learning experiences.
Visual Art Education
Overview
The Visual Art Education concentration within the M.A. in Education program focuses on advancing both artistic skills and pedagogical expertise for educators in visual arts. Students explore innovative teaching methods, contemporary art practices, and curriculum development strategies that enhance creativity and student expression.
This concentration emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, helping educators build impactful learning environments where students can thrive artistically and academically. Graduates are prepared to lead art programs, enhance curriculum design, and inspire creativity across diverse educational settings.
Who is
This For
Licensed Art Educators
Teachers seeking to deepen their expertise in visual art instruction
Creative Educators
Professionals passionate about fostering creativity and artistic expression
Curriculum Innovators
Educators looking to design engaging, arts-based learning experiences
Career Advancers in Education
Teachers aiming for leadership roles within arts education
Arts Integration Advocates
Individuals interested in incorporating art across interdisciplinary learning
What
You’ll Learn
Artistic Practice & Development
- Expand knowledge of contemporary art techniques and media
- Strengthen personal artistic expression and creative processes
- Explore diverse artistic styles and cultural perspectives
Instructional Design in Art Education
- Develop engaging, student-centered art curricula
- Apply best practices in visual art pedagogy
- Integrate art into broader educational frameworks
Assessment & Student Growth
- Evaluate student artwork using meaningful assessment strategies
- Support individual creative development
- Use feedback to guide artistic and academic progress
Innovation & Creativity in Education
- Foster creativity and critical thinking in students
- Design innovative, inquiry-based art experiences
- Encourage collaboration and artistic exploration
Skills You’ll
Develop
Creative Thinking
- Inspire originality and artistic exploration in students
Instructional Design
- Create effective and engaging visual art curricula
Artistic Expertise
- Apply advanced techniques and artistic knowledge
Critical Thinking
- Analyze artwork and teaching strategies for continuous improvement
Communication
- Provide constructive feedback and facilitate artistic dialogue
Curriculum
The Visual Art Education concentration combines core MAEd coursework with specialized art education training, providing a balanced and flexible pathway for educators.
Program structure / key curriculum features
Core MAEd courses include:
- Professional writing
- Research methods
- Assessment and data literacy
- Capstone experience
Visual Art Education concentration courses focus on:
- Advanced visual art instruction and methods
- Curriculum development in art education
- Contemporary art practices and theory
- Student-centered creative learning strategies
Program highlights:
- 30 total credit hours (12 core + 18 concentration)
- Flexible delivery with online coursework options
- Accelerated course formats (8-week and 6-week terms)
- Capstone project tied to art education practice
Careers
& Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in art education and related fields, including:
Art Teachers (K–12)
Median Wage
Job Growth
Instructional Coordinators (Arts Focus)
Median Wage
Job Growth
Openings Per Year
Arts Program Coordinators
Median Wage
Job Growth
Curriculum Specialists (Arts Education)
Median Wage
Job Growth
Community Arts Educators
Median Wage
Job Growth
Admissions
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum 2.5 GPA for MAEd concentrations
Completed graduate application
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
GRE/MAT may be required for some applicants
The Hilltop
Advantage
West Liberty University’s M.A. in Education – Visual Art Education concentration combines:
- Flexible learning formats for working educators
- Small class sizes with personalized faculty support
- Creative, hands-on learning experiences
- Affordable tuition from a public university
- A supportive, close-knit Hilltop community focused on student success
Ready to Advance
Your Career?
Bring creativity to the forefront of education. The Visual Art Education concentration at West Liberty University empowers you to inspire students, elevate your teaching, and lead meaningful change through the arts.